25th Annual Home Educator's Convention and Curriculum Fair
A review by David Monk, Convention Director

Thanks to all of you (approx. 4,100) who attended the special 25th anniversary edition of our convention. We hope you came away feeling that after 25 years, homeschooling works! Tom Lewis, former AFHE president, kicked things off with a history lesson highlighting the milestones our Arizona homeschool journey. Next, Dr. Brian Ray (of National Home Education Research Institute) gave us the facts from statistical studies on the achievements of homeschoolers and the vision that has inspired so many in the movement. Then while Dean Ortner (Wonders of Science) wowed the teenagers with his dramatic science demonstrations and moving spiritual applications, the rest of the speaking team went into action inspiring and informing us on topics from public speaking to classical education, mentoring daughters to home organization, and learning through play to homeschooling through high school. All the while our exhibit hall hosted the cream of the homeschool market for attendees to browse and shop.

Friday evening we were proud to host our 15th annual Jr. High Graduate Recognition Night with 69 graduates. Then Saturday morning proved to be well-worth the wait. Senator John Huppenthal joined us to accept our honor for his long-time service to homeschoolers in Arizona since, as Tom Lewis pointed out, he was front and center in our defense when it really mattered. Mary Schofield took center stage for the Saturday keynote to give us a new perspective of our homeschool heritage and to show us how what exploded in the 1980’s was birthed in the 70’s from seeds planted in the 60’s. She went on to remind us why we started this homeschool journey in the first place! We would like to express our gratitude to the nearly 200 volunteers who worked so hard to help make this year’s convention a success! Make plans to join us in 2009. We will be at the Phoenix Convention Center July 17th and 18th, 2009 and you’ll be happy to know that we’ll be back in the South Building where the workshop rooms, ballroom, and exhibit hall are all on one floor. We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Voddie Baucham Jr. will be our featured keynote speaker.

Here are some comments from convention attendees ...

Thank you! When I’m homeschooling my children, AFHE is watching my back, informing me and encouraging me to go ahead and do it another year.

The conference was encouraging to me. I’ve been thinking about this being my last year to homeschool, but now I may consider homeschooling through high school.

Very well done and professional!

This is my seventh year of homeschooling, but my first convention. I was so refreshed and encouraged. It was like a retreat to renew my focus. Thank you. It was an answer to prayer.

This convention has been great to help me get started in my homeschool “adventure.” Was a great encouragement to a new homeschooler like me. God used it to confirm to me that I’m on the right track. Thanks so much.

I always look forward to this event. You all do such a fabulous job. I have come away encouraged and determined to homeschool through high school even though my oldest is just turning 11.

I really enjoy coming and feel excited and refreshed about the upcoming year!

Thank you so much for all your hard work! I really look forward to the uplift and great ideas and resources the speakers and vendors provide.

I’ve been to this conference for six years. It helped to convince and encourage me to homeschool in the first place. I wouldn’t miss the conference! It is refreshing and energizing. I get great ideas every year. Thanks for putting it all together!

This convention always encourages me to keep on homeschooling, reminding me of the goal and biblical mandate. Always helps with specific courses and tools. The exhibit hall is so helpful.

This is my second year and I cannot thank you enough for the incredible amount of time and effort you put into this convention. It is a highlight in the year for me.